Boost for the environment after tree-mendous effort

Staff from Newcastle University have helped improve the environment in the city by hitting the gym and getting active – with 650 trees added to the landscape thanks to their efforts. 

The University, in partnership with Rise and with funding from Bupa, organised a January fitness challenge for staff - every time a member of staff completed an exercise class, gym session or wellbeing walk at Newcastle University Sport and Fitness Centre, a tree will be planted in the local community. 

The success of the initiative means there will be more than 650 trees planted in Newcastle - and a group travelled out to start the planting themselves last week – where they planted 400 trees in two hours! 

Katy Sawyer, who works in the School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, said: “Me and a colleague went on a wellbeing walk in January and we decided from then on to put it monthly in our diary to do a wellbeing walk together. We’ve done two so far and it’s really good, it’s nice to get out, go round Exhibition Park and look at the ducks! I feel so much better, just seeing the greenery and getting out of the office for a bit of a chat and decompress.” 

Suzanne McDermott, Rise’s Strategic Lead for Infrastructure and Environment, said: “Here at Rise, we are passionate about the benefits that physical activity brings for a healthy environment. Physical activity improves the lives of individuals and their communities, which contributes to the overarching protection of the environment. 

“Congratulations to all of the staff at Newcastle University on their achievement – their hard work will have a positive impact for years to come.” 

Liam Isaac, Sport Partnerships & Development Manager at Newcastle University, said: “It has been fantastic to work with Rise on this initiative and develop the relationship between the two organisations. I firmly believe by aligning our aspirations to get more people physical active alongside having a social impact we can continue to have a positive influence in this area. I look forward to seeing the progress of other ongoing initiatives along with identifying new opportunities to collaborate.” 

Harriet Bendelow, Colleague Health & Wellbeing Lead for Newcastle University said: “The incentive contributes to a fantastic cause, funded by Rise, which goes someway to tackle the UK’s deficit of woodland coverage, currently lacking behind the EU average by 24%. Additional trees being planted contributes to a reduction in air pollution and flooding, improving biodiversity, water quality and much more.”